Kofte, also known as köfte or kefta, is a popular Middle Eastern and Mediterranean dish made with ground meat, spices, and herbs. It can be served in various ways, such as grilled on skewers, baked in the oven, or simmered in a flavorful sauce. Here’s a recipe for basic kofte that you can customize to your liking:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef or lamb
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, chopped onion, breadcrumbs, egg, parsley, cumin, coriander, paprika, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to mix the ingredients together until they are evenly combined.
- Form the mixture into small, oval-shaped balls or patties. If the mixture is too sticky, wet your hands with water to prevent it from sticking.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add enough olive oil to coat the bottom of the pan.
- Add the kofte to the skillet, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until browned and cooked through.
- Serve the kofte hot with your choice of sides, such as rice, salad, or flatbread.
Kofte is a versatile and flavorful dish that can be customized to your taste. You can add different spices, herbs, or even vegetables to the mixture to create your own unique variation. It is a great option for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or for entertaining guests.
